Canada money controversy over an $100 banknote featuring an Asian woman prompted the bank's governor to apologize Tuesday. Critics accused the central bank of racism in the Canada money controversy.

ByReutersAugust 21, 2012

A cyclist rides past the Bank of Canada building in Ottawa last month. The Bank of Canada has issued an apology in the Canada money controversy surrounding a new $100 bill. The banknote initially featured an image of Asian woman,which was scrapped in favor of a white woman, prompting critics to accuse the bank of racism.

The Canada money controversy began because the initial design for the new C$100 note featured a picture of an Asian woman, but this was scrapped after focus groups expressed concern Asians should not be the only ethnic group represented.

When the bill was released into circulation last year, the Asian woman had been removed and replaced by a woman who looked to be Caucasian, prompting complaints from Chinese groups and media commentators.